Social Factors of Childhood Obesity

Social factors of childhood obesity Obesity in children does not have just genetics to blame. Before the advent of industrialisation overweight in children may have been the result of an unlucky gene pool. However, today it is a symptom of a sedentary society, and its prevalence is increasing at an alarming rate – overweight in children tripled in the U.S. from 1980 to 2004 (Ogden et al. 2007). Obesity in children is not yet as predominant as it is in adults, nevertheless should be especially addressed as a serious issue to prevent its onslaught. Furthermore, obese children are at risk of developing chronic diseases such as hyperinsulinemia and hypertension (Csabi 2000) and have a high chance of their obesity enduring into adulthood (Whittaker et al. 1997).

The obesity epidemic has rapidly developed within a short period and is concentrated mainly in developed countries. Pijl (2011) pinpoints the industrial revolution as the root cause of the current epidemic. Lissner & Rosengren (2008) agree with this view, citing mechanisation of work and increased access to motor vehicles as major environmental factors. These factors have resulted in a lifestyle change for developed countries – mechanised transport rather than walking, desk jobs rather than factory labour. Combined with this shift is the elevated availability of food. With this heightened availability came heightened consuming, leading to widespread overconsumption. This trend did not decelerate, as the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) showed in their 2002 report, claiming that since 1960 daily calorie consumption increased by up to 25% worldwide (FAO Summary Report 2002).

Obesity in children may be largely a consequence of upbringing. Parents influence their children's habits by shaping their food preferences and eating behaviours. Kral and Rauh (2010) refer to the interaction of these habits as child's ‘food environment'. However, although children may take their cues from parents, parents might not have a choice. Although developed